Paint for bathrooms is a quick and easy way to spruce up your decor without spending a ton of money. With a bit of prep work and some elbow grease, you can change the look of your bathroom using paint in as little as a day.
Finding the best paint for your bathroom means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available colors and formulas. With the right paint for bathrooms, this loathsome chore can become a quick, over-and-done-with task.
We reviewed dozens of paints for bathrooms to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated paints for bathrooms homeowners can purchase to ensure a perfectly finished bathroom for years to come.
We’ve identified Diamond Brite Kitchen and Bath Paint as the best paint for bathrooms out there. With a formula that can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed on, this paint for bathrooms is one that will make updating your bathroom quick and easy.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Paint for Bathrooms
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Paint for Bathrooms Overall | Diamond Brite Kitchen and Bath Paint | 4.4 |
| Best Paint and Primer In One for Bathrooms | Prestige Interior Paint and Primer In One | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Paint for Bathrooms | Rust-Oleum 2774 Zinsser Interior Eggshell | 4.3 |
| Best Ceiling Paint for Bathrooms | KILZ Color-Change Stainblocking Interior Ceiling Paint | 4.2 |
| Best Low Odor Paint for Bathrooms | The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Interior Semi-Gloss Paint | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Paint for Bathrooms Overall: Diamond Brite Kitchen and Bath Paint
The Diamond Brite Kitchen and Bath Paint took the top spot on our list of the best paints for bathrooms and boasts a formula that can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed on for ease of application. It is mildew-resistant and features a washable finish to easily clean fingerprints, stains, and grease using just soap and water. It is both splatter and fade-resistant for increased longevity. It boasts a dry time of approximately 30 minutes.
Those who purchased and reviewed this paint for bathrooms appreciated that it was easy to wash and found it to be quite durable. People were also impressed by the fast dry time and coverage this bathroom paint offered. One reviewer commented, “High quality paint. Fast drying.” Another said, “Amazing paint, good coverage.”
With a price tag of about $26/gallon, it’s about the middle of the road as far as the cost of bathroom paint goes, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of application more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Diamond Brite Kitchen and Bath Paint Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Semi-gloss finish
- For best results use Diamond-Brite PVA Primer-Sealer first
Best Paint and Primer In One for Bathrooms: Prestige Interior Paint and Primer In One
The Prestige Interior Paint and Primer In One took the runner-up spot on our list of the best paints for bathrooms, and boasts an all-in-one formula that makes it easy to cover up already painted walls. The acrylic latex formula is easy to clean with soap and water and is low VOC. If necessary, a second coat can be applied after four hours. Each gallon provides coverage for approximately 250-400 square feet.
Those who purchased and reviewed this paint for bathrooms appreciated that it was thick and felt it offered good value for the price. One person who purchased and reviewed this bathroom paint commented, “I can’t recommend this paint enough. After buying Behr paint and having to do three coats to paint white over off white, I’m never going back to Behr or Glidden. I ended up just cutting in the corners twice and doing the flat areas (ceiling, walls) in just one coat. Saved me time and frustration and because I didn’t need extra paint for doing 2-3 coats, it saved me money. The odor isn’t bad either–barely noticeable while I was doing the painting and it went away completely in 2-3 days.”
At a cost of around $30/gallon, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of application more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Prestige Interior Paint and Primer In One Key Features:
- Available in a choice of four finishes
- Available in a choice of colors
- 1-hour dry time
Best Budget Paint for Bathrooms: Rust-Oleum 2774 Zinsser Interior Eggshell
The Rust-Oleum 2774 Zinsser Interior Eggshell is an excellent choice for those looking for paint for bathrooms that won’t break the bank. It boasts a self-priming formula for ease of application and features a mold- and mildew-resistant finish that is guaranteed for five years. It provides a washable finish that is easily cleaned with soap and water and helps to resist dirt and water. Each can provides coverage for up to approximately 350 square feet, and each coat dries in about two hours.
Those who purchased and reviewed this paint for bathrooms appreciated that it was thick and easy to apply. One reviewer commented, “I pre-cleaned the bathroom and let it dry out for a day before painting, waited 24 hours after applying, and haven’t seen any mold since!”
With a cost of approximately $17/can, this paint for bathrooms is a solid choice for those looking for paint for bathrooms option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at painting their bathroom as its more expensive counterparts.
Rust-Oleum 2774 Zinsser Interior Eggshell Key Features:
- Eggshell finish
- Lifetime durability guarantee
- Water-base, low odor formula
Best Ceiling Paint for Bathrooms: KILZ Color-Change Stainblocking Interior Ceiling Paint
The KILZ Color-Change Stainblocking Interior Ceiling Paint is an excellent option for those looking for a ceiling paint for bathrooms. It boasts a unique combination of stain-blocking technology and a dry time indicator for ease of application. The spatter-resistant formula rolls easily, and can also be sprayed — and is low odor. Each can provides coverage for approximately 250-400 square feet, depending on the surface.
Those who purchased and reviewed this paint for bathrooms appreciated that it was easy to apply and clean, and felt it offered good value for the price. One user commented, “It immediately covered everything, we did nothing to prepare the ceiling at all, no scrubbing, no wipe down, we just painted over everything and then did ALL the walls. It has changed the entire house!” Another person commented, “My bathroom vent fan died and I waited too long to replace it, so it got some mildew spots on the ceiling (along with 15 years of grunge). Bleach didn’t work very well, so I used this to repaint it. It did a perfect job of stain-blocking and the ceiling looks better than ever. It goes on thick and dries very flat and bright, so it’s great at hiding minor flaws too.”
With a price tag of about $49/gallon, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of application more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
KILZ Color-Change Stainblocking Interior Ceiling Paint Key Features:
- Dry to the touch in under one hour
- For maximum stain-blocking recoat after 4 hours
- Self-priming formula suitable for smooth or textured ceilings
Best Low Odor Paint for Bathrooms: The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Interior Semi-Gloss Paint
The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Interior Semi-Gloss Paint is a solid choice for those wanting a paint for bathrooms that is low odor. It is available in a choice of 32 colors with three different sheens. It boasts a 100% acrylic formula that is both stain and mildew resistant. Each gallon of this bathroom paint provides coverage for approximately 250-400 square feet. It can be applied using a brush, roller, or airless sprayer, and is backed by a lifetime limited warranty.
Those who purchased and reviewed this paint for bathrooms appreciated that it was easy to clean and easy to apply. One person who purchased and reviewed this bathroom paint commented, “Honestly blown away by the quality of this paint. I’ve never painted a wall before so this was purely based on previous reviews and golly was this paint easy to work with! it went on smooth and buttery with no streaks from my roller at all. Almost instantly dried down too!” Another said, “The low VOC and mold protection were key factors for my purchase. I am chemically sensitive and this paint didn’t cause me any issues/reactions. I chose white to keep the VOCs as low as possible. Paint is thick, goes on easy and cleans up well.”
At a cost of around $32/gallon, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of application more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Interior Semi-Gloss Paint Key Features:
- Dries to the touch in just one hour
- Paint and primer in one
- Cleans easily with soap and water
Who Should Buy a Paint for Bathrooms
Paint for bathrooms is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to spruce up their decor without spending a ton of money. Painting, especially when done the DIY route, is a very affordable way to update your decor. With a bit of prep work and some elbow grease, you can change the look of your bathroom using paint in as little as a day. Plus, paint is readily available at most big-box retailers and home improvement stores, making it easy for anyone to tackle this project when the inspiration strikes.
Additionally, paint for bathrooms is also a good choice for those who need to cover stains from mold, mildew, or water damage. Water damage can cause unsightly yellowing or browning, but a quality mold and mildew-resistant paint can cover these spots quickly and easily.
Finally, some people find that a fresh coat of paint is necessary for their bathroom in the event of damage to the wall, cabinetry, or other fixtures in the room.
While you have out your paint supplies, and if you’re in the mood to re-finish parts of your home, you may also want to check out The Best Deck Stains.
Important Features to Consider
Not all paints for bathrooms are created equal. A paint for bathrooms should resist moisture and mildew, and be easy to apply. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best paint for your bathroom:
- Type. Arguably the most important consideration when shopping for the best paint for your bathroom is the type. Bathroom paint is available in water-based latex, acrylic, and oil formulas. Most people should opt for water-based latex paint as it is low odor and low VOC (volatile organic compounds), and is moisture-resistant. Oil-based paints offer more durability in terms of washing, but release more VOCs, and can yellow over time.
Also, consider what you’re painting when choosing the right type of bathroom paint. There are bathroom paints for walls, ceilings, and even cabinets. You can also find paint for bathroom tiles and tubs. - Mildew-resistant. Another important thing to keep in mind when comparing bathroom paints is whether or not it is mildew-resistant. Because the bathroom is such a high humidity area of the home, you want to opt for mildew-resistant paint whenever possible. If mold and/or mildew are already a problem in your bathroom, you can apply a primer or paint with a mildewcide that will kill any existing mold, mildew, and bacteria for added convenience.
- Washable. Bathroom walls can get dirty, so having paint that is durable enough to handle an occasional washing is ideal.
- Finish. One of the most important things to consider when looking for the best bathroom paint is the finish. A satin finish is good for low moisture bathrooms, while semi-gloss is excellent for bathrooms of all kinds. Most people tend to avoid flat or eggshell finishes in bathrooms as they are difficult to clean and can absorb moisture.
- Color. Another important factor when choosing paint for bathrooms is the color. You want something that is going to match your overall design. Some manufacturers offer paints in a limited number of colors, while others can provide color-matching for specific looks.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on paint for bathrooms. Paints for bathrooms vary in price from $10-$50 per gallon or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bathroom paint and how does it work?
Bathroom paint is a type of household paint that is usually mold and mildew resistant. It works the same way as regular house paint, in that it is applied using a brush or roller, in order to cover the walls with a particular color. Bathroom paint can be made from acrylic or latex, as well as recycled or virgin paint. There are also specialty bathroom paints that are used for painting tile, tubs, and even bathroom cabinets. The type of bathroom paint you’ll need will depend on what you are painting.
Do I need special paint for bathrooms?
There is no special “bathroom” paint — house paint is house paint. However, there are house paints that have been specially formulated to withstand the warm, humid environment of the bathroom. These paints will often contain antimicrobial additives that help to resist (but not completely prevent) mildew, or mold, and have a washable finish, as they sometimes require a good wipe down or scrubbing. One of the most important things to consider when looking for the best bathroom paint is the finish. The satin finish is good for low moisture bathrooms, while semi-gloss is excellent for bathrooms of all kinds.
What kind of paint should you use on a bathroom ceiling?
The best type of paint for bathroom ceilings is one that is resistant to moisture and mildew. As with the bathroom walls, paint in a satin or semi-gloss finish is the best choice for painting bathroom ceilings.
How do you prepare a bathroom for painting?
You prepare a bathroom for painting in much the same way as any other room in your house. If possible, remove furniture and fixtures from the room. Dust and wipe down the walls to remove any debris, then, tape around trim, windows, the floor, and doors. Scrape any cracked or flaking paint with a paint scraper, before applying a layer of primer to the wall. For new drywall, water-based primer is best, whereas oil-based primer is better for walls that already have paint on them. Allow drying before applying paint. Begin in the corners of the wall and up near the ceiling, using an angled brush to “cut” the paint. Use a small brush to apply paint around the trim and in the corners of walls, then, using a roller, apply paint in a 3′ by 3′ W shape, before filling it in (without lifting the roller.) This will help hide seams where the roller is lifted on and off the wall. Continue painting in this manner until complete. Remove tape and allow the paint to dry completely.
Other Paints for Bathrooms We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other paints for bathrooms. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best paints for bathrooms list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for painting your bathroom. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Cabinet Paint for Bathrooms
- Tub and Tile Paint for Bathrooms
- Paint and Primer In One for Bathrooms
- Ceiling Paint for Bathrooms
- Primer for Bathrooms
- Low Odor Paint for Bathrooms
Cabinet Paint for Bathrooms
Majic Paints Diamond Hard Interior/Exterior Satin Paint
This cabinet paint for bathrooms boasts a smooth satin finish and is available in a choice of 10 different colors to suit nearly any decor.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- No sanding required
- Suitable for use on a variety of surface types
Cost: $15/quart
This cabinet paint for bathrooms boasts a low VOC, acrylic formula, and contains paint and primer in one for ease of application.
Key Features:
- Soft, satin finish
- Covers 100 square feet
- Covers most existing wood finishes and paint
Cost: $70
This cabinet paint for bathrooms creates a unique brushed effect and boasts a low VOC, low odor formula. It is easy to keep clean with just soap and water.
Key Features:
- Covers 125 square feet
- Available in a choice of six colors
- Lightly textured matte finish
Cost: $20/quart
This cabinet paint for bathrooms boasts a formula that dries in just 30 minutes, and is suitable for use on wood, laminate, primed, or painted metal cabinets.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of 15 colors
- Self-priming, self-leveling formula
- Water, mold, and stain resistant
Cost: $35/quart
This cabinet paint for bathrooms boasts a paint and primer in one formula, complete with a mess-free brush tip that makes for quick and easy cabinet touch-ups.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of 10 colors
- Non-toxic, zero VOC formula
- Solvent-free
Tub and Tile Paint for Bathrooms
Homax Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit
This tub and tile paint for bathrooms boasts a high gloss porcelain finish designed to last for years and is drip and sag resistant to prevent the appearance of brush marks.
Key Features:
- Includes steel wool, prep cleaner, gloves, and paint brush
- Cure time of 48 hours
- Suitable for fiberglass, porcelain, and glazed ceramic tile
Cost: $37
Krylon Tub & Tile Ultra Repair Finish Spray Paint
This tub and tile paint for bathrooms boasts an aerosol formula for ease of application and dries to a chip-resistant, porcelain-like finish.
Key Features:
- Resists peeling
- Suitable for porcelain, glass, fiberglass, and ceramic tile
- Dry to the touch in 25 minutes
Cost: $18
Rust-Oleum 280882 Specialty Tub and Tile Spray Paint
This tub and tile paint for bathrooms is suitable for use with ceramic, porcelain, or fiberglass tubs and tiles, and boasts a one-step epoxy acrylic formula.
Key Features:
- Dry to touch in 15 minutes
- Covers 15 square feet
- 12 ounce can
Cost: $13
Rust-Oleum 7860519 Tub And Tile Refinishing 2-Part Kit
This tub and tile paint for bathrooms boasts a durable two-part epoxy acrylic formula that is moisture and corrosion resistant for years of use.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Available in single or multi-packs
- Covers up to 110 square feet
Paint and Primer In One for Bathrooms
Glidden Interior Paint + Primer
This paint and primer in one for bathrooms boasts a choice of three different finishes and is available in more than 300 colors to suit nearly any decor.
Key Features:
- Scrubbable for ease of cleaning
- Low-odor, low-VOC
- One coat coverage
Cost: $58/gallon
KILZ TRIBUTE Interior Matte Paint and Primer
This paint and primer in one for bathrooms boasts a low VOC, 100% acrylic formula that provides a mildew-resistant finish.
Key Features:
- Scrubbable for ease of cleaning
- Choice of four sheens and 100 classic neutrals and colors
- Covers up to 400 square feet
Ceiling Paint for Bathrooms
Boomerang Eco-Friendly Interior Paint
This ceiling paint for bathrooms boasts an eco-friendly latex formula that releases 4x fewer greenhouse gas emissions than its competitors.
Key Features:
- Covers up to 430 square feet
- Available in a choice of 15 colors
- Scrubbable for ease of cleaning
Cost: $26/gallon
Zinnser 03688 Covers Up Stain Sealing Ceiling Paint
This ceiling paint for bathrooms boasts an aerosol formula for ease of application and is ideal for touch-ups. It dries to a flat white finish.
Key Features:
- Non-yellowing
- Low odor formula
- Paint and primer in one
Primer for Bathrooms
KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer
This primer for bathrooms boasts a water-based formula that helps to seal surfaces while providing a uniform finish on which to apply paint.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Suitable for most interior surfaces
- Covers approximately 300-400 square feet
Cost: $23/gallon
INSL-X Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer
This primer for bathrooms boasts a premium acrylic-urethane formula that is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including glossy tile, PVC, vinyl, plastic, paint, and fiberglass.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Cures in temperatures as low as 35 °F
- Covers 75-100 square feet
Cost: $15/quart
Rust-Oleum 276087 Mold Killing Primer
This primer for bathrooms boasts a mold-killing formula that attacks and kills existing mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria. It features a washable, low odor formula.
Key Features:
- Dries to the touch in 30 minutes
- Covers up to 160 square feet
- Works with any topcoat
Low Odor Paint for Bathrooms
KILZ L204511 Kitchen & Bath Interior Latex Primer/Sealer/Stainblocker
This low odor paint for bathrooms boasts an enhanced mildew-resistant film while providing a smooth and level finish on which to apply paint.
Key Features:
- Very low VOC
- Latex-based formula
- Offers high hide for color changes
Cost: $24/gallon
Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Eco-Friendly Paint
This low odor paint for bathrooms boasts an eco-friendly formula that is produced from raw and post-consumer latex paints in the USA.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of 18 colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Includes a 10-year warranty
Cost: $28/gallon
This low odor paint for bathrooms boasts a latex-based formula, and dries to a flat-eggshell finish. It is made in the USA from recycled content paint.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of 22 colors
- Available in a choice of sizes
- Scrubbable for ease of cleaning
Cost: $32/gallon
RUST-OLEUM 5001 Mold/Mildew Paint
This low odor paint for bathrooms boasts an oil-based formula that is suitable for use on masonry surfaces. It contains a mildewcide to help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Key Features:
- Bright white, smooth finish
- Lifetime waterproof guarantee
- Can apply to wet or dry walls
Cost: $51/gallon
